Eligibility

1. Hold a valid passport from a “visa-required” country (e.g., Bahamas, most Caribbean nations).
2. Demonstrate sufficient funds for your stay.
3. Intend to leave Canada before visa expiry (show ties such as job, property, school enrolment).
4. Be admissible (no serious criminal convictions or immigration violations).

Required Documents

1. Passport – valid ≥ 6 months beyond planned entry, 1 blank page.
2. IMM 5257 application + family information form.
3. Two photos – 35 mm × 45 mm, neutral background.
4. Proof of funds – last 3 months bank statements or payslips.
5. Travel plan – flight reservation and hotel booking or invitation letter from Canadian host.
6. Employment / school letter – confirms approved leave and return prospects.
7. Biometrics receipt (after VAC appointment).
8. Previous visas/travel history copies (last 10 years).

Optional but helpful: property deeds, marriage certificate, travel insurance.

 Application Steps

1. Online application – create IRCC account and complete forms.
2. Pay fees – CA $185 total (visa + biometrics).
3. Biometrics appointment – attend any nearby VAC within 30 days. 
4. Document upload – scans or PDFs via your IRCC portal.
5. Wait for a decision – average 2–4 weeks once biometrics received.
6. Passport request & stamping – send passport to VAC or VFS hub; receive it back with visa vignette.
7. Travel to Canada – present passport and proof of funds to the CBSA officer.

Processing Time

• Standard service: 3 weeks from biometrics to decision (Home-Office SLA).

Priority service (optional): 5 business days at select VACs (extra £250).
Apply at least one month before travel to secure an appointment and allow for passport return.